Effect of Ethanol on Micro-Vessels Diameter and Prevention of Thrombosis

BACKGROUND: Microvascular surgery is one of the most important parts of reconstructive surgery. In the present study, the effect of ethanol on microvascular diameter and prevention of thrombosis was evaluated. METHODS: Totally, 80 vessels including 40 arteries and 40 veins in right and left ears of 20 adult rabbits were enrolled. Seven days after injection of ethanol to rabbit ear vessel, vessel diameter and thrombosis rate post-iced saline challenge were documented and compared to normal saline injection in contralateral ear as a control group. RESULTS: Vessel diameter in both arteries and veins in ethanol group was significantly larger than normal saline control group, and patency rates due to preventive effect of ethanol were also significantly higher in the ethanol group after iced saline challenge. CONCLUSION: Pretreatment with ethanol can enlarge vessel diameter and play a preventive role on thrombosis after iced saline challenge.